(A/N): So I'm looking back at each chapter of Affection to see how much Veronica has progressed over the stories just for this chapter, I've noticed a lot of detail that I have forgotten about the house like it has a freaking fountain xD in my mind it's completely changed. I also realized I left a few things that have not been addressed like the credit card for the lumber, the stuffed rabbit, and a few others I can't quite remember but I feel there is more and I hope to have each one of them solved I'm only halfway through reading the story on ch. 6 It's all coming back to me. I'm just trying not to sleep. Anyways If you remember some of the things in the past that need answering please let me know I'm trying to not leave those important details out but I'm unfortunately forgetful and in the future the story might not make sense but I'll be sure to reread and fix things as I go.

On another note I've noticed how everyone is just angry with Ace xD So much ANGST I know but I'm just basing him off of the series depicts him until that one big change happens but I promise to make it up to you with fluff in the future. Why you such a jerk Ace? Oh wait because of me! Lol! For now this chapter is more about Veronica and the boy's realization of how much they love their mother as a special. Enjoy~

PS: I have been listening to music and a thought popped up wondering if Affection were an actual anime or podcast or something what would be their opening or ending theme? I found an ending theme it's called: Caught in the middle by Paramore: cause reader is caught in a love triangle or square xD

Cicadas chirp echoes throughout the forest on a summer's day. A week left before summer vacation and the D brother's first summer break from school work. Luckily for the elementary kids they didn't have to do much for the passing week besides chilling until Friday. Sabo however, remains to his encyclopedia capturing every detail of the map and the treasure found but not decoded. He held so much knowledge and curiosity into the pirate book that he became passionate for his dream to become a novelist. A new opening into what he wants to do, that being a traveler and experiencing so many things like a free person would. The blonde stood before the wall of maps pinned with sticky notes , strings and tacks. A wide smile adorning his lips while he scans each page. He takes a seat, recoiling to his book. Nose into his literature like a book worm. He ignores the outside crashes and battle cries of his brothers below.

Luffy hasn't started his lessons until his return from camp as scheduled by Veronica. She had already signed the boy up for camp and it is coming to a close on the twenty-fifth. The sensei surprisingly agreed to the terms seeing as how new comers usually start on the month of when school starts. The remainder of their time at home, Luffy has decided to train and learn as much as he could with his brothers before disappearing every afternoon.

The rubber boy crashes against a tree. He slides down against it groaning in pain. Ace cackles at the runt. "You still haven't learned a thing although your pistol attack has improved immensely. I doubt the dojo will let you use your devil fruit powers. That's the one thing that sucks about having powers amongst the normal ones."

"I don't care!" Luffy stands himself up. "I may not be able to but I know for a fact that they can teach one how to fight. I'll be able to land a hit sooner than you think Ace." The boy jabs the air swiftly hopping around like a boxer. The freckled boy scoffs at his ambition.

"Well I hope so. Then I wouldn't have to go easy on you."

"What? You've been going easy on me all this time?" The boy gapes.

"Yep." He says nonchalantly. "You've been damaging yourself all this time and I didn't even have to lift a finger." Luffy drops to his knees holding his head in disbelief.

"No this can't be." Ace rolls his eyes.

"Oh chill out ya big baby." Luffy continues to babble to himself still distraught by the news. Ace grumbles to himself leaving him out in the open to visit Sabo where he finds him still reading his book. The boy pouts placing his hands on his hips displeased. "Yo! Sabo what are you doing? Still reading that book (Y/n) gave you?" Too self absorbed into the story, said boy continues to read unable to hear his brother's question. Ace huffs and knocks on his head hard enough for him to break out of his trance. He even placed his hand above the book yanking it. Sabo grunts coming back.

"Wh-what? Sorry I didn't hear you." He sheepishly rubs the back of his head chuckling nervously.

"You've been reading that book for three days now. You're worrying me." He stands in front of the mapped wall. Sabo closes his book to join him.

"It's fascinating. It's like you're actually in the pirate era. This book informs you of the famous sailors, their adventure log, treasure hunts and so much more. There are pictures, but that's beside the point."

"Right....I get it and that is cool, but the real question is, what do you see in all of this?"

"Freedom. An opening to another dream I want to not just achieve but to fuel my passion into wanting it so much I will grasp it in the future." Ace watches the boy's eyes light up in awe. He smiles halfheartedly. Sabo always carried such grand creativity out of anyone he's ever encountered. He was borderline empathetic and borderline strong. A representation of a middle sibling keeping their group balanced. Sabo saw things at a different angle and it was all thanks to his past. A past he never wishes to return nor speak of.

"Ah, I see. Well then I hope your dream does come true buddy. I'll help you every step of the way." He pats Sabo's back. Sabo smiles fondly at his supporting words.

"Thanks. I know you will."

Luffy pounces on the brothers shouting, "Group hug!" All three tumble down. Luffy laughs hysterically while being scolded by his brothers only for them to join in on his contagious laugh.

"Boys! Come home! I need your help out here!" Ace, Luffy, and Sabo poke their heads out their window to see Veronica calling them from afar. Her silhouette blurry but visible.

"Okay!" Ace calls back. "Be right there!" Veronica hears their echoed reply. She wonders what on earth they were doing all this time in the woods. She decides to follow their voices. When she reaches the view of the fort she is stopped by the boy's cries.

"No stop!" Veronica yelps and stands stiff.

"What? What's wrong?" She slowly lowers her foot only panicking the boys closer to a heart attack.

"No don't move! Step over that wire. We have traps set around here." Veronica does as she's told and looks back seeing the faint glimmer of a metal trip wire. She squats down and follows the trail up to find a net.

"Impressive." She mutters. "I didn't even know you kids could build such complicated traps. I've seen it in movies but that's all mostly done by adults." She stands before the boys and the treehouse built above them in view. The black, jolly roger flailing with the summer breeze. She raises a brow. "This house was never here and judging by the initials on the flag that's all you. Same goes with the traps since you know them so well." She squints her eyes in suspicion leaning closer. The boys gulp nervous to explain. "Say, how did you get all this lumber?" Ace clicks his tongue.

"What makes you think it's us. Maybe we found the tree recently and we made it our own and made traps and added a flag on top of the crow's nest." Veronica becomes worried. She kneels down and looks around starting to turn vigilant. The boys are left confused by her sudden actions.

"What? No I would have noticed. Is it true that you just stumbled upon it?" Her eyes filled with worry and for some reason this guilt tripped them. She didn't deny that they were lying to her she actually believed them. Luffy being the softest one gave in hanging his head low.

"No that's not true. We built it. We're sorry we lied."

"Luffy..." Ace groans. Sabo is a little relieved to spill the beans. Veronica lets out a relieved sigh.

"Thank goodness." She mumbles. She then knits her brows in disapproval. "Please don't lie to me. Especially me. I will find out eventually just like I have already learned each of your stories. Now is someone going to start explaining?"

The work shed is opened, inside rests nothing but the usual dust bunnies, cobwebs, dirt and unused tools; however there is one more addition to the shed. Lumber. Lumber stacked neatly and starting to gain more clutter.

"We...used your credit card to buy them. We wanted to make a treehouse of our own in secret. W-we were cautious of you and scared of what you had planned for us. We don't mean trouble Veronica honest. We're sorry." Sabo pleads. Their guardian flicks on the lights and looks around. Her stern expression hasn't changed since they've guided her there. Slowly, she touches letting the dust stick to her fingers as the feeling of cold metal meets her senses. Her eyes soften into one of hypnosis. Her eyes searches every nook and cranny of every detail of the objects stored away. The trio were left in suspense behind her watching her every movement. Could she do something so horrible beyond their imagination? Their time came now. The moment she turned around, a shit eating grin as wide as Cheshire Cat meets their eyes.

"I get it. I really do." She dusts her hands off. "You were scared. You took precaution to prevent the past from reoccurring. I read that in your files too. It's all in the system, so relax. I'm just glad you told me. I knew I made the right choice when I adopted you. At first I was skeptical when I read the entire reports, but I took my chances hoping to turn you guys around and I did. A little. You three turned yourselves around I mean look how much you've changed since then!" She chuckles view them. Small tears brim from her eyes recalling those first months. "I've seen you three cry in my arms, become angry, laugh and smile as if the world wouldn't faze you like it should be. Everyday I see you a little happier than when I first encountered you. More insisting than you once were and all of it is by choice." She caresses Luffy's and Ace's chin to face her. Their eyes turn glossy to her heartwarming speech. A small smile graces their lips. Veronica sighs. "Nonetheless it was wrong and I knew all along, although I did have my doubts. Still this works out because you're all going to make it up to me by helping me clean. Today I've decided to do some spring cleaning and there is no way out." The boys groan.

"I knew this was a trap." Luffy puffs his cheeks.

"Whelp, let's hop to it." She takes a step outside before stopping in her tracks. "Oh! One more thing, did Shanks by any chance know about this and kept it a secret?"

"Yes." Ace and Sabo said.

"No." Luffy said. Luffy glares at his brothers for snitching on his hero.

"I thought so. I'll be sure to scold him when I see him." She starts.

"What?" Pandora gasps.

"I knew it!" Cara squeals like crazy. "Although it's been awhile since we spoke but I saw the way you got a little jelly when I mentioned your brothers." You blush hard to Cara's teasing. Here you are confessing your possible romantic feelings for Ace on Skype which suddenly became a subject after Cara mentioned her crush was old news now and asked about yours.

"I-it's not like I wanted to! I just saw them as my brothers I swear. I just thought I was being protective that's all." Cara hums not believing you. "It's true." You huff trying to defend yourself. You whimper and slam your head on the table embarrassed.

"Hey, hey, I believe you (Y/n) relax. I'm just shocked that you gained feelings for your....well brothers that's kind of weird."

"Brother. Just Ace not Sabo or Luffy. Just Ace." You correct.

"Well they're not blood related." Cara defends.

"True, but it's still weird to me." Cara clicks her tongue and rolls her eyes at Pandora.

"I think it's cute, but..." She sighs and frowns. "That means freckles is taken." She pouts. You glare at her instantly as jealousy erupts. Cara chuckles towards your reaction. "Relax once he's taken I don't intend on taking him away from you. What's yours is yours."

"Anyways..." Pandora starts. "What makes you say you have feelings for Ace?"

"Well he...um..." You mumbled something under your breath.

"What?" They asked nearing themselves to the frame. You shut your eyes and turn beet red.

"I SAID HE KISSED ME!" You blurt out. You cover your mouth. Stars shape on Cara's eyes while Pandora is wide eyed blushing.

"Awe! That's so adorable! So does that make you two a thing?" You shake your head.

"Sadly no. He burned my lips due to his powers which I believe are tied to his emotions and well...when we pulled apart he ran away before I could even tell him it's okay or even bother for me to apologize for hurting his feelings." You squeeze your arm returning how you used to be when you were picked on. "We...haven't even spoken about it since that day. It's been awkward and I've been trying to find the time but lately he's just been angry towards me like...he resents me or something and I honestly have no idea why but I believe it's the kiss or something." You sigh heavily. "You should have seen the way he turned away from me. The way he's ignored me these past few days. It hurts." Your friends stay silent and frown.

"Whatever the case is with Ace, I'm sure he's just as troubled as you are. Maybe you should confront him. Talk to him about this and clear this misunderstanding before it gets worse."

"Pfft!" Cara intervenes. "Screw that! He should pay for making you feel like shit. If anything you should just pretend not to care and you'll see how much it will bother him as pay back." You hum in thought considering it as she cackles. Pandora clutches the bridge of her nose exhaling.

"Cara that's not such a great idea. That will lead to more-"

"(Y/n) honey! Come downstairs and help us clean the garage. It's time for Spring cleaning!" Your mother calls.

"Okay! Coming!" You turn to your friends. "I have to go guys. We'll talk later."

"For sure. Okay Pandora what do you mean that's stupid?"

"No wait (Y/n) don't leave m-" You hang up and chuckle knowing Pandora was about to enter a discussion she didn't want to be part of but somehow caused it. You hop out of your chair after shutting off your laptop and head downstairs in your overall shorts.

You find your brothers standing in front of the garage door that is slowly opening and leaking junk. Ace peers at you from the corner of his eyes then averts his gaze as per usual. Your mother frowns in disapproval scratching her head.

"Shit it's been awhile. Ugh, I feel filthy for storing up this much crap. Look at this mess!" She pulls on her hair in distress. "Luckily this year I have eight pair of hands that will be helping me clean up." She chirps. "Now, first things first before we begin, the wanted pile is on one side and the unwanted on the other. You can also choose what you want to keep if something interests you. I'll be modifying somethings if it needs some repairs. If it's too broken and you're uncertain just run it through me and I'll decide if I can repair it." A nod of agreement is said. "Right, let's get started."

Nearly four hours of cleaning and piling the junk to it's destined side, the children are left exhausted taking a break.

"Geez, lady you really need to learn to clean or at least be moderate and clean every once and awhile." Ace starts. He flops on the ground sticking his tongue out tiredly. Sabo and Luffy sit next to him trying to catch their breathes. Veronica wipes her forehead.

"I know I should. It gets hard being a..."

"A single parent." They add. "We know." They say in union.

"Maybe that's why you should date while we're in camp." You tease tossing a broken bike wheel to the junk pile.

"No!" The boys exclaim startling you.

"She doesn't need a jerk in her life." Ace grumbles.

"Yeah she's fine without one."

"Smarter than them too." Sabo adds. You tilt your head raising a brow to their sudden defense on your mother. Your mother giggles from their compliments.

"Awe, such sweet boys. Protective of your mommy huh? So cute." The boys pout having a slight blush. They didn't deny it. She sighs. "Not to worry, I won't be dating any time soon that I'm young. My job requires me to be full time while you're dropped off in camp. The more I have full time the more I gain vacation time for my babies~." She sings.

"Mom you really need a love life." You frown.

"I'm fine baby girl really. Now that we're done with this mess I say a break is a need. I'll fetch some iced tea." Veronica takes her leave into the house. Luffy leans near the water and splashes water on his face to cool off. Ace and Sabo do the same enjoying the waterfall. A sigh of relief escapes them regardless if they felt a little weak. You head up to them making your figure blurred by the running water. Sabo is the first to spot you. He pulls away followed by the other two. You held your hands on your hips wearing a stern look.

"What?" Sabo asks.

"What the hell is wrong with you? I get that you're defending mom and I was once that way, but mom needs to be happy and date someone. I know that having someone around like Mr. Shanks for example helps take a load off of her responsibilities. She's a full time worker and mother all the way, but when will it be time for her to be happy?" You roll your eyes figuring this whole conversation is stupid and no matter what you thought or say it would never get to them. It was their thoughts, their opinions that mattered the most even after they make a promise. "Never mind." You mumble walking off before they could say anything. Lately you've been moody. Countless thoughts of Ace and priorities mixed messed with your mind. Clarity was not in your view anymore. You being an over thinker made things difficult to even face Ace and be nice to your brothers all together. It's difficult. What you really needed to do was get some space and soon you'll have that at camp hoping to god you'll return to normal. It's not that you are tired of your brother's completely, just a fact that you've grown accustomed to who they are and your thoughts of them begin to change since the first day you've met. Not out of choice, but subconsciously like...puberty was starting to hit you? Regardless you went on your way to cool off yourself. Ace raises a brow and follows your form dazed in wonder what was going on with you.

"Well that certainly was weird. I wonder why she left without us having a say?" Sabo said. "Honestly, lately she's been so moody and I can't understand why."

"Yeah." Luffy agrees.

Veronica comes back with a pitcher of Iced tea and a few glass, cups filled with tea on a tray. "Let's head to the back yard table and rest there."

An hour later, the trio is laughing at Luffy's story telling of how they built their treehouse.

"It was tough, but we finally managed to complete are dream fortress as Luffy said." Sabo says.

"My it sounded like such an adventure. You three certainly know how to keep it together. Almost like a brotherhood bondage. So sweet."

"Off topic, but what are you going to do with all that junk?" Ace starts.

"Oh! The junk pile will be either pawned or tossed in the junkyard for scraps. The kept junk will be modified. If it's broken, we will repair it. So now that our junk is in the trunk of the car we can toss it aside and fetch some essentials."

"So that's it? We're done?"

"Not quite Tsun-tsun." Ace blushes at his nickname finding it to be accustomed to it. Sabo sneers and nudges the boy earning him a glare. "Tomorrow we'll be cleaning the house. Spring cleaning isn't done until everything is spotless and clean for another year." The boys groan. Luffy looks over to the shed curiously.

"Even the shed?" Veronica turns quiet. Her smile fades as she stares at the shed a few feet away. Sabo takes notice of her expression. He nudges both brothers to look at their guardian. Their brows knit with confusion.

"Is something wrong with the shed?" Luffy asks.

"Or rather does it mean something?" Ace adds. Her purple eyes briefly widen then shift over to them.

"You can...say that. The shed belonged to (Y/n)'s father when he was alive." She shifts to Luffy hoping he wouldn't remember that story she told him of how she met her baby daddy. The boy seems to stare at her blankly to her relief.

"What was the guy's name anyways and what happened to him?" Veronica clenches her first and bites her lip. The thought of that man boiled her being.

"He died in a car crash before (Y/n) was born." She stood up to stretch. "That was a long time ago and so was break. Let's head to the junk yard before it closes." She hums taking her leave. The boys frown and tilt their heads.

"Poor Veronica. It must be painful to talk about it judging by the way she acted." Sabo mutters.

"Yeah, it must also suck to have that she'd around as a reminder. That explains why it has been untouched for years." Luffy sniffles after hearing Ace and Sabo's analysis.

"Poor Veronica. Poor (Y/n). They must be so sad when they think of him." He sniffles wiping a few tears away. The two sweat drop at the emotional kid.

"Let's just promise never to speak of him again if it brings her that much pain." Sabo and Luffy nod in agreement.

The first stop was the junkyard where they dumped their trinkets into the dump. Afterwards you were driven to the store. Upon arrival, your brothers decide to split up ans explore their favorite sections. "Behave! I'll search for you when we leave so try to stay in one place." The boys spread out and rush to their section. You stayed at your mother's side.

"(Y/n), don't you want to go with them?" You shake your head forcing a fake smile.

"No mama. I want to help you. It will make things go faster." She raises a brow in wonder.

"Sure. Okay if you say so. Let's start with the hardware section." You follow her down the aisle giving you time to drown in your thoughts.

Meanwhile, the boys rush down the path to their destination. "So where are you guys headed?"

"I'll be in the book section near the electronics."

"Toys section!" Luffy exclaims.

"Right and I'll be near by the game section if you need me." On that note, the three split up. Luffy is the first to arrive at the toys section. His eyes sparkle shaping into stars seeing all the merchandise he'll be playing with. He wanders down the aisle observing each toy to debate which one he will pick first. He stops Midway finding his object of interest resting on it's shelf. An action figure. He takes it in his hand and beside him is it's enemy. He bounces up and down feeling giddy as ideas pop in his head.

Not long did it take for Luffy to nearly shred open some toys just to continue to play his story in his head. He stops when he hears a boy on the other side complaining to his mother about a toy he wanted. Curiously, Luffy peers around the corner to eavesdrop and watch.

"Mom please? Can't I just have one today?"

"No, you have plenty at home and we have to go. Your father is waiting for us in the car." The boy pouts then sets the toy aside.

"Okay mommy. I won't complain anymore."

"Good boy Harold." The woman pat's her son on the head taking his hand and leading him away. Luffy unconsciously follows them until the edge of the corner and nowhere in sight. He lowers his gaze to his action figures wearing a sad expression. Slowly, he trots back to the toys section to put away everything in place or at least tried. He hears some giggling behind him. Two girls no older than thirteen pass him to reach for the cards section. Luffy follows finding a banner which reads: "Happy Mother's Day."

"Mother's...day?" Luffy mutters. He turns back to the giggling girls picking a card.

"Do you think she will like it?" One said.

"It's mom. Of course she will." The two giggle once more and retreat. Luffy trots over to the spot where they stood. He picks up the same card and reads the inside.

Thank you for always being there for me. You are a great mother. Happy Mother's Day.

Luffy hums to himself wondering what the term mother really is but more importantly if today is indeed mother's day, then what should he do to appreciate his guardian. Did he have to? Is it even possible to consider her one? She has been kind and caring as promised. Fed and kept a roof over his head while also never treating equally. A fair mother but to call someone mother was a permanent word for him. Still so foreign, but perhaps now is the time to change those thoughts. The boy goes through each card reading for any insight on what a mother is about. They were all so heart warming and beautiful. A small smile tugs his lips. He places the card aside to search for his brothers. The closest section at the moment is Ace.

Ace was found playing a demo of a video game. His teeth gritting at the annoyance of having to dodge the blasters from enemy spaceships. A bold, Game Over, lettering displays on the screen followed by a countdown. He pouts and crosses his arms in disapproval. Luffy chuckles startling his elder brother. A tick mark appears over his head in offense to his brother's mockery.

"Shut your ass up! Now why the hell are you here? Are we leaving?" Luffy shakes his head.

"No actually I have a very important question." Ace raises his brow. "Today is Mother's Day."

"Oh crap is it?" He mumbles scratching his head. "So what about it?"

"Well I was wondering if you knew what a mother is or maybe know what we should give Veronica?"

"How the hell would I know what she likes? She's a mom so she probably likes jewelry, purses, kitchen utensils and lacey garments." He blushes and averts his gaze trying not to remember that day while searching for her credit card. Luffy tilts his head. "Th-that's just a guess of course. As for a mother, well I haven't a clue. I never had a mother idiot. Did you forget we're orphans?" Luffy hangs his head low. Ace jolts in panic not wanting to see the boy so upset. "But...I suppose a mother is someone that's nice. She actually cares and loves ya sort of like Veronica I guess or Makino? All I know is that they're someone important who love you no matter what." Ace picks up a game to distract himself from blushing further. He scoffs admiring the thoughts of your mother playing in his mind. How she tucked them in. Worried for Luffy the minute he vanished. Snuggled them with hugs and peppered their faces occasionally. He sighs setting the case down. "Okay, maybe we should try to ask Sabo for help. He's better at this than I am." Luffy nods following his brother in search for their blonde haired brother.

Said boy is found opening and closing a book searching for something. The section being fantasy.

"Sabo!" The boy yelps in surprise slamming the book close. He turns to find his brother's calling him.

"Oh, hey guys. Is it time to go?"

"Not exactly. We sort of want to know what a mother is like but most importantly give something to Veronica on this special day." Sabo tilts his head. "It's Mother's Day."

"Oh! ...Oooooh." He coos. "Um...well you guys know my mom wasn't all that great herself. I do however, have an idea of what she is which is....is...um..." He goes blank for a moment and hums to get a better idea. Ace pinches the bridge of his nose and sighs heavily.

"Okay we both haven't a clue. We get it. We do however know that we should at least thank the woman for bringing us this far. She's been true to her word since she adopted us and has treated us like no other. I mean we've talked about this before and we agreed we didn't know when the right time to call her mom is."

"Maybe it's time? I mean do we even want to leave or even think about it anymore?" Sabo and Ace stare at Luffy astonished. The question is taken under consideration.

"No...not really." Sabo said. "You?" All eyes fall onto Ace. Their leader. The freckled boy is left a little frozen unsure what to think. Is he ready? Did he want to leave? Ready was not the right word. Leaving, certainly not. He loved his life as it is aside from his romantic feelings for you and the fact that he just feels conflicted, but other than that he was sure he wants to stay put. Perhaps calling her mother for a change couldn't hurt and in time get used to it. The boy takes a deep breath before exhaling.

"I don't want to leave and I've also made up my mind that Luffy is right. Maybe it is time. This is just a sign we've been looking for. No regrets and no looking back. Are you two okay with that?" Not even a second later did they grin indicating their agreement to his decision. "Right, now the only thing left to do is confess it to her as a gift, but that begs the question about having more than a confession to give her."

"What about a card? I saw some girls take one. There are all kinds. Some with music and some that are plain with words."

"That is a nice idea that I can get behind, but the only person who knows Veronica more than us so that we can surprise her is (Y/n). We should have her in on this too. She is practically our sister." Ace groans throwing his head back. Sabo furrows his brow. "What the hell is your problem?"

"Nothing." He grumbles.

"No, you've been acting like a jerk when it comes to (Y/n) all of a sudden. What's the deal? Why the sudden change? Did she do something or say anything to you to piss you off?" Ace snaps at the blonde giving him only a long glare. Sabo stood his ground furiously staring into his Onyx eyes.

Ace bites down hard on his teeth as his words seethe out, "Nothing. It's fine."

"Clearly it's not."

"I don't want to talk about it!" He barks. The boy spins on his heel to leave. Sabo spins his back holding his shoulders.

"Tell me! What did you do to her? It seems something happened to you two. She feels the same way when I mention you only she is sad." Ace widens his eyes to this new information. Pain throbs his heart and conviction starts to engulf him. He didn't mean to hurt you. He doesn't know how to handle this situation. He's confused, conflicted damn it. Hurting you is what he's been trying to prevent. The last thing he wants. Sure it's his decision in the first place for you to hate him. Something he's used to but to make you sad? It's worse. He could just picture your crying form huddled in the corner at night. He wanted to hold that girl in his mind. His baby. The girl he's come to love dearly to be assured she'll be alright and that he's sorry. "Oi!" Ace comes back to reality. "Answer me! What happened?" The freckled boy pulls away as his hair cover his vision.

"Like I said, don't worry about it. What happened between her and I stays that way."

"Like hell! We don't keep secrets from each other Ace remember? We made a promise not to hurt her anymore and you do the complete opposite." Sabo barks.

"Ace what did you do?" Luffy pouts. Before Ace could answer, a cart strolls up halting behind them.

"There you three are. Glad I didn't have to search for each of you. Let's go home. We have work to do." Veronica chirps. All three are startled by the woman's sudden appearance. They shift their gaze over to yours. You stare back at each one landing onto the freckled boy. He averts his gaze only this time he seemed pained. You frown concerned for him, yet you knew better than to do anything about it. You were currently following Cara's advice in hopes to gain his attention. That didn't stop the feeling of worrying for the boy no matter how much he's pissed you off over the time. You look away and follow your mother wanting the day to end already. Each end was one step closer to camp and away from Ace and your brothers. Sabo and Luffy witness your reaction to Ace confirming his suspicions. The way you stared at him with sadness the way you kept your attention mostly onto him rather than all three. Something did happen and something did change that allowed you to give all your attention to him. Sabo clenches his fist. A low growl emits from his chest. He's never felt so much envy. Luffy felt the same way only he acted more childishly about it than anyone else. Their eyes immediately glance over to their freckled brother whom takes his leave behind Veronica. The whole walk to the cash register, Sabo and Luffy stared daggers into his back envious and disappointed in him. It was that small feud again like back in the orphanage when they split up over knowing about Gol D. Roger.

Returning home, your mother asked you to help improve the spared junk. There were a few things that caught the boy's eyes. One of them for Luffy was a huge tire truck. She claimed it could be used be a play thing. Veronica rolls the tire all the way to the back yard where the corner, maple tree stood. Luffy pops out of the tire laughing as he spun around from being dizzy. He flops on the grass in attempts to make the world stop spinning. The woman laughs amused.

"Okay Luffy, now what we're going to do is hang this tire on sturdy, thick branch that may with hold the weight of this tire." The straw-hat boy sits up and hands her the tight rope. Thick and sturdy just for a tire. She begins to wrap the tire with rope four times before tying it up in a knot. She hands the other end to Luffy. "Do you mind doing the honors of tossing the rope over that branch?" She points to the one above. Gladly, he takes the rope stretching his arm over the branch and handing her the rope on the other side. "Thank you." She hums and pulls the rope up to see the extent of height of the tire swing should be. Content, the woman rolls up her sleeves swiftly jumping from trunk to branch skillfully. Luffy marvels at the move just displayed before his eyes. He never imagined she could do such a thing. Could she even fight? She moved like a cat in the blink of an eye at that speed. The boy was so busy marveling over the jump that he didn't realize the swing was ready. The pat on his head was the only thing bringing him back. Before him stood a swing ready for him to sit on. "Clean and ready to be decorated as you wish. It can have pillows or blankets in them for cushion." He smiles softly as he comes to conclusion on a subject he and his brother's were talking about. He hops onto the tire and his gently pushed by her. "Kick your feet up when you move forward then kick back to go back. You can also lean but just use your kicks." Here she is giving advice. Teaching him something new. He stops swinging to look up to her.

"Thanks. I really love it Veronica."

"No problem Luffy. You can sit back and relax now. I think we're done for the day. I just have to help your brother's with their gear." She ruffles his hair lovingly. His chocolate orbs follow her form dazed. He looks at his feet and kicks up then back starting to swing by himself.

Meanwhile, Veronica returns to the front where she meets Sabo and Ace. Sabo had already taken the liberty to clean the portable drawing table and typewriter after asking if he could claim it for himself. Gladly, she obliged. He screwed a few bolts here and there replacing the old with new so that the board may close or stand as it pleases when in use. "Are you sure that's what you want Sabo? There are interesting things you've picked up." Sabo nods.

"In our treehouse we have a wall dedicated to navigators. Well it's mostly just maps that I've ripped from the encyclopedia (Y/n) and Corazon gave me to study."

"You know navigators don't exist I don't think."

"I know but I still wish to travel the world. It would be the ultimate experience to freedom."

"Freedom huh? Is that what you truly desire my little bumble-bee?" Ace drops what he's doing and turns slowly with a shit eating grin at Sabo. Sabo is flustered from the tips of his ears. He does his best to scowl at him. Threatening him mentally as if to say,

"Don't you dare say it. Shut up or die." He grumbles. Ace bursts out laughing trying to hold his gut.

"Bumble-bee? Hahahaha! That's so funny! Here I thought I was the only one with a nickname." He chortles. Veronica tilts her head.

"What do you mean? You all have nicknames. Sabo is Bumble-bee when I'm alone with him. You're Tsun-tsun because you act like a tsundere all the time."

"Again! I don't know what that means!" He growls. Sabo snickers to the name. Veronica ignores him continuing to rant.

"Luffy is Bubblegum, and (Y/n) is Marshmallow because she's sweet as can be." She coos. Sabo and Ace laugh hysterically unable to control themselves to the names being given by your mom. Veronica is bemused pouting at their childish behavior.

"Luffy is Bubblegum?" Ace asks gasping for air.

"(Y/n) is Marshmallow! Bahahahaha!"

"That's enough, if you keep at it I'll be sure to tell William and any future friends you bring over what I call you. I'll purposely embarrass you and I won't be ashamed of it." She grins. Instantly, they pause and gulp at the threat. They stare deep into her wicked eyes.

"Shit...she's not kidding." Sabo murmurs.

"Fine, fine. We're done laughing."

"Good boys." She chirps changing her mood. "Now does anybody need help on their materials before I move onto mine?"

"Nah, I'm good thanks." Sabo said.

"Ace?" The raven-haired boy looks at the basket hoop plaque contemplating.

"Maybe. Does...this basketball hoop work?" She covers her mouth the chuckle at his adorable attempt to ask for help.

"It does. We can hang it on the garage." Ace sheepishly rubs the back of his head.

The deed was done. The hoop was hung and ready to tossed some baskets. Old, but it still hung in there. Veronica polished and kept the metal net in great condition. No signs of rust after that polish. She steps down with her drill and moves the ladder aside.

"There. All done my dear. Ready to shoot hoops as you please." A smile tugs his lips to be able to see the basket again. Memories replay in his mind of the day in the orphanage.

"Thanks Veronica. It looks great."

"No problem my dear. Now I just have to deal with the rest of the junk. Sabo, be a dear and order out for us."

"Okay!" He calls back while tending to his typewriter repairs. He sets the screw down wiping his forehead with a, "Phew" slipping through his lips. "Do you have any idea of what we should get? I'm thinking Pizza. Maybe wings?" He notices his brother giving no reaction as he is plainly glued to the basket. An idea crosses his mind. He takes a deep breath and shouts, "Tsun-tsun I'm talking to you." He teases. Ace scowls at the boy.

"I heard you asshole! I don't care. Choose whatever you want. I think I'm going to shoot some hoops."

"To think?"

"Yeah." He says taking his leave.

"About time. I'm tired of always thinking for you stooges."

Meanwhile, you are writing in your diary. Some tears stream down your face out of frustration. You sniffle and wipe them away attempting to stop them from spilling anymore. You take a deep breath pausing your writing to clear your mind and relax. You exhale slowly prying your eyes open. Glossy and wet eyes are dried by you hand. You add a period to your last sentence ending the chapter of your day. You grab your stuffed animal holding it tightly against you. You over thought all the scenarios in your head about Ace and how things could have been if only you had or hadn't done such a thing. The fact remained that your eyes were forced open to the possibilities of you and Ace. A new angle of how you perceive him. You never thought that this is the way he saw you. Romantically not plutonic. To your dismay, you felt the same. You liked him more thank you could possibly know. You loved him. Your small fingers brush against your plump lips yearning for his lips onto your again. You shut your eyes to envision them on your. The way they felt so warm, soft and inviting. You wanted more, but didn't know what else couples did. The image of his lips parting from yours left you breathless enough to whisper his name. Your cheeks red with heat. "Ace." The name made your entire body shudder for his warmth. You open your eyes still dazed and disappointed that he did not sit in front of you however you swore you could see his fading figure on your window watching you. He too is dazed on that reflection whispering your name.

"(Y/n)." So clear almost like he is actually behind you. Your eyes widen when you come to fruition that the window was indeed reflecting what's behind you. You turn around to find him staring at you. He stood beside the door ajar unsure how to form the words.

"A-Ace!" You call out embarrassed. He jumps to your holler. "Wh-what are you doing here?" You ask. He's left speechless as to how he could explain what he just witnessed. Nonetheless, he clenches his fist tightly as if grasping his resolve to speak.

"I came to talk to you."

"About?" You urge him to continue.

"About New Years." Your ears are perked. All your attention focused on him. He brought it up. Something you didn't believe he could do nor you. Why the sudden change you inquire. Regardless he wants to speak of it. "Are you...sad?" You shake your head inquisitively.

"N-no." You lied. Ace glares at the floor. "A-at least not entirely." You confess. His anger eases. "Why?"

"So It is true. You're not mad. You're sad. I hurt you." That much you knew, but why did he say the obvious? Before you could say anything else, Sabo and Luffy barge in with to greet you. Another moment ruined never given the time of day to be alone.

"Did you tell her already?" Sabo asks. Ace shakes his head.

"About what?" You tilt your head.

"We need your help on making a Mother's Day card, but we really don't know much about her."

"Uh...oh. Right! Mother's Day." You slap your hands on your cheeks horrified that you had forgotten. Your brain scrambled for any ideas. Your body functions on it's own grabbing a piece of blank paper, folding it and start writing on it. "I think I've got something. We can decorate it first, but we should have gotten her flower or something."

"I'm on it!" Luffy says running off." You feared the worst when that boy left without giving the okay knowing he meant destruction. He probably would leave the garden in tatters plucking out random ones.

"Um...okay so what exactly did you want to add? Any specifications?"

"We...sort of want to surprise her with something we agreed on. You'll find out what we mean, but most importantly want to find a way to thank her for everything she's done for us." You blink a few times starting to get the idea of what they wanted. "Oh. I think I understand. I have the perfect thing." You turn on your chair and start writing.

Later that evening, Veronica prepared the plastic plates, napkins and sodas and the delivered pizza ready to be served. "Kids! Come down stairs and eat!" She tosses her gloves aside and washes her hands. Upon entry to the dinning room, she finds all four of you lined up. Sweet innocent smiles plastered on your faces. "Hello, what's all this?" She points out. Luffy tips his hat forward bashfully hiding his face as he hands over the card and flowers which she smells them first and sets them on the table. Veronica takes it and reads the title:

~Happy Mother's Day Mom!~

She gasps in surprise then squeals with delight. Inside there is more to say:

Thank you for being the greatest mother. For taking care of me when I'm sick, for loving me everyday regardless of how embarrassing you make things be. Thank you for all the times that I've fallen only for you to pick me back up again and again until I get it right. We wish you happiness wherever you go because you deserve the best. No matter where I go you will always be in our hearts and minds. You're our mother whom we love and appreciate everyday. Thank you four loving our flaws. Veronica.

"Thank you for loving us like we're your own." Sabo adds.

"Thanks for actually giving a crap about us devils."

"You're the best!" Luffy chants.

"We love you." You said.

"We love you....mom." The boys say in union. You smile softly happy that your brothers have warmed up to your mother and saw what you saw. Your mother bursts into tears. She falls to her knees causing you all to worry for her.

"Mommy?" Luffy says. That did it. "Are you okay?" That struck your mother's heart so much she could not help the cuteness overload. She hugs all of you into a crushing bear hug.

"Oh my babies finally gave in. Yes! Fuck yes! I'm the proudest mother of four ever!" She weeps starting her pepper her children with kisses and love almost everywhere on their faces. You and your brothers groan completely embarrassed.

"See what you've started?" You scold them.

"We were just trying to be nice." Ace defends.

"Yeah but you love me." Veronica coos.

"No stop! We take it back." Sabo says.

"No take backs cause you still love me. My babies!" She smooches each of your heads as you squirm in her embrace. Luffy groans but enjoys her kisses. He ends up laughing only to make it contagious making everyone laugh. You all hug her back.

"Happy Mother's Day mom." You say.

"Thank you all. I love you guys so much. This is the greatest mother's gift ever. I don't need no present just to hear these wonderful words." And those were left true. She couldn't be any happier to know that the boy's she's adopted finally loved her back as she hoped for.

(A/n): Cue the ending them! Lol! Happy Mother's Day guys~ I hope you love your mother just as much as The ASL bros do. Also Ace will get his confrontation soon.

This is it guys Camp chapters are coming up I'm so excited and you should be too because after that it's time for these babies to turn into teens/adults ;) that's when the real romance starts.

If you have any camp suggestions let me know I'll gladly add and credit ya

Credit: And-The-Sky-Is-Grey for the store suggestion :D Love everyone's ideas